Elm Creek Park Reserve

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
River/RiparianUrban Park
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Elm Creek Park Reserve is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 208 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian and urban park habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Wild Turkey among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

3/4/2026Elsie Stephens Park1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/4/2026Edward Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

122/26/2026

Mallard

62/26/2026

Wild Turkey

252/26/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/26/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

22/26/2026

Downy Woodpecker

32/26/2026

Blue Jay

72/26/2026

American Crow

32/26/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

82/26/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

32/26/2026

Red-breasted Nuthatch

12/26/2026

European Starling

82/26/2026

American Robin

112/26/2026

House Sparrow

62/26/2026

House Finch

52/26/2026

American Goldfinch

62/26/2026

American Tree Sparrow

222/26/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

62/26/2026

Northern Cardinal

32/26/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/25/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Elm Creek Park Reserve for birding?
The best months to visit Elm Creek Park Reserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Elm Creek Park Reserve?
Notable species at Elm Creek Park Reserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, Wild Turkey, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports river/riparian, urban park habitats.
How difficult is birding at Elm Creek Park Reserve?
Birding at Elm Creek Park Reserve is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Elm Creek Park Reserve?
Elm Creek Park Reserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.